As a parent, it’s natural to worry about your child’s feet. From the wobbly first steps of a toddler to the aches of a teenage athlete, every stage comes with its own quirks. The challenge is knowing what’s normal, what can be treated at home, and when it’s time to see a podiatrist. Many foot issues, like bunions, can develop slowly and quietly – so quietly, in fact, that they often go unnoticed during routine pediatric checkups. Overreacting can create unnecessary stress, while underreacting can allow problems to worsen over time. That’s why we’ve put together a quick age-by-age guide to help you spot the subtle signs, care for your child’s feet at home, and know when to talk to one of our podiatrists.
Infants (0–12 months)
What’s Normal:
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Feet may look flat or turned inward. This is usually due to baby fat and flexible joints.
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Toes may splay or curl. This is part of learning to grasp and explore.
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Feet often appear red or wrinkled after baths. These are usually normal circulation adjustments.
What to treat at home:
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Maintenance: Keep feet clean and dry, trim nails straight across, and avoid tight socks or shoes.
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Encourage gentle movement and let babies kick freely.
When to call us:
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Persistent or severe inward/outward twisting of the feet that doesn’t improve over the first year.
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Skin lesions, unexplained swelling, or signs of infection.
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Toe or foot deformities that look pronounced at birth.
Toddlers (1–3 years)
What’s Normal:
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Flat feet are still common at this age. The arch develops gradually over time.
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Walking may be unsteady. Some toe walking is normal but make sure you let your pediatrician know if you notice your child walks on their toes often.
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Minor scrapes or bruises from running and climbing.
What to treat at home:
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Minor bruises and scrapes can be cleaned and covered at home.
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Encourage barefoot play on safe surfaces to strengthen foot muscles.
When to call us:
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Persistent toe walking beyond age 2–3.
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Limping or difficulty walking.
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Red, swollen, or painful areas that don’t improve in a few days.
Preschool & Early School Age (4–7 years)
What’s Normal:
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Feet are still growing rapidly. Shoe size may change every few months (or faster!)
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Mild aches after activity can happen as muscles develop.
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Occasional stumbles or minor sprains are common.
What to treat at home:
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RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for minor bumps or twists.
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Encourage supportive footwear and monitor for tight shoes.
When to call us:
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Frequent injuries or ongoing pain.
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Visible deformities, such as toes pointing inward or bunions forming.
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Signs of infection: redness, warmth, discharge.
Middle Childhood (8–12 years)
What’s Normal:
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Increased participation in sports can bring soreness and minor injuries.
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Toenail bruising from running or sports shoes is common.
What to treat at home:
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Ice and rest for mild sprains or muscle soreness.
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Keep toenails trimmed and shoes properly fitted.
When to call us:
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Persistent pain during or after activity.
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Swelling, redness, or tenderness at joints or along the foot.
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Recurrent ingrown toenails or infections.
- Flat feet or high arches are common and may be normal at this age! Keep an eye on development and foot comfort, and ensure proper shoe fit. We suggest a routine podiatry check for peace of mind!
Teens (13–18 years)
What’s Normal:
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Feet may continue growing until the late teens and even early 20s!
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Sports and high impact activities may cause strains or stress injuries.
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Ongoing foot odor or mild fungal infections may appear.
What to treat at home:
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Stretching and strengthening exercises for sports related soreness.
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Maintain proper hygiene and footwear.
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Ice, elevation, and OTC pain relief for minor injuries.
When to call us:
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Chronic pain, especially in the heel, ankle, or arch.
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Suspected fractures or severe sprains.
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Persistent ingrown nails, warts, or infections that don’t improve.
Key Takeaways for Parents
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Trust your instincts: You know your child’s normal activity and pain levels.
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Don’t panic over every bump: Most minor scrapes, bruises, and aches are normal.
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Early intervention matters: Persistent pain, swelling, or visible deformities should prompt a podiatry visit.
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Support healthy development: Encourage barefoot play when safe, well fitted shoes, and regular foot checks.
Children’s feet are resilient, but they grow and change rapidly. By understanding what’s normal at each age-and-stage and knowing the warning signs for podiatric care, parents can confidently care for their children’s feet without overreacting or missing important problems.
